And I feel like celebrating. I admit there are some Advents that I have not felt like diving into the Christmas madness, but this year I am ready.
Why? Maybe it is the cold, but also maybe because I have invested the full year in that year-long Bible study and am so excited to be nearing its conclusion.
As Christians, and especially if we have been raised as a Christian since birth, Christmas has always been so important. Sadly, though, we can often fall into such a rut that it loses significance.
Maybe that is what happened. I also know that with kids it is part of the parenting role to be excited, but then the kids grow up and have their own kids. Christmas develops its own pattern and you must readjust yours to meet the season of your own life.
Whatever the case is, Advent has arrived, and I have decorated more than I have in years—probably thanks to my daughter’s push. And I still have more to do.
But why, again? As I have continued the study this year, I feel like I have been given new insights into the entire development of Christianity. It is a gift that will just keep on giving.
Therefore, as we begin the process of saying farewell to 2019, look forward to 2020. Consider adding a Bible/scripture reading plan into your life on a daily basis. It is the gift you give yourself.
Just in case you have none available to you, check a few different ones I found by googling “Bible reading plan 2020”:
One of my favorite websites is BibleGateway and they provide a variety, too, at this link:
https://www.biblegateway.com/reading-plans/?version=NIV
I could go on, but this is a starting point for you to prepare for January 1, 2020. If you try to read the entire Bible in one year, be prepared to allow 45+ minutes a day. If you add in study notes, it can take more. I was on a year of rest so I had time to focus on the reading. At this point, I do not know what I will do for 2020, but I am beginning to ‘shop’ around.
Please join me in prayer:
Dear Lord,
We know you are The Word, but we so often fail to read your words. Thank you for speaking to me through scripture and for speaking to those who turn to your words. Speak to them, renew them, and guide them in loving one another. –Amen
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